Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Ingredient amounts are adjustable, but cooking times remain the same.

Stir Fry

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons canola or avocado oil
• 1/2 small head cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, peeled and sliced vertically
• 1 bell pepper (any color), seeded and cut into thin strips
• 4 ounces Baby Bella (cremini) mushrooms, sliced

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons plus 1/4 cup lower-sodium soy sauce, divided
• 3/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger or ginger paste
• Optional garnish: sesame seeds and sliced green onion

Directions

1. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up clumps with a wooden spoon, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, around 30 seconds. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside on a plate.
2. In the same skillet, add the oil and toss in cabbage, onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Stir-fry until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons soy sauce until smooth. Gradually add beef broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger, mixing until fully combined.
4. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and combine with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 463
• Fat: 27g (35% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (41% DV)
• Cholesterol: 101mg (34% DV)
• Sodium: 543mg (24% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (7% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (15% DV)
• Total Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 35g (71% DV)
• Vitamin C: 102mg (113% DV)
• Calcium: 138mg (11% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (23% DV)
• Potassium: 1038mg (22% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient values may vary depending on ingredient specifics.

The History and Cultural Background of Ground Beef Stir Fry

Ground Beef Stir Fry is a modern adaptation of traditional Asian stir fry dishes, combining the quick-cooking techniques of Chinese cuisine with Western ingredients like ground beef. Stir frying as a cooking method dates back over a thousand years in China, originating during the Han dynasty. The method emphasizes high heat and fast cooking to preserve the texture and flavor of vegetables while incorporating proteins. The addition of ground beef makes this dish more accessible in Western households, where whole cuts of beef may be less commonly used in everyday meals.

Regional Variations

Although this recipe is categorized under American cuisine, its roots are heavily influenced by East Asian stir fry traditions. In Asia, stir fries often use thinly sliced meats such as beef, chicken, or pork, combined with locally available vegetables like bok choy, bell peppers, and mushrooms. In American kitchens, ground beef is frequently used for convenience and affordability, and the inclusion of cabbage, onions, and cremini mushrooms reflects a fusion of flavors that balance both Eastern and Western preferences. Regional twists might include adding chili paste in Southeast Asia or substituting soy sauce with tamari in gluten-free variations.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Ground Beef Stir Fry differs from other stir fry dishes primarily in its use of minced beef instead of sliced cuts. This creates a richer texture and allows the sauce to coat every small piece of meat more evenly. Unlike dishes such as Beef and Broccoli or Mongolian Beef, which typically use larger chunks of beef and heavier sauces, ground beef stir fry is lighter and faster to cook. It also blends seamlessly with a variety of vegetables, making it versatile for weeknight dinners or quick meals.

Where It Is Typically Served

This dish is commonly served at home as a convenient weeknight meal, often paired with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. In casual restaurants or food courts, ground beef stir fry may appear in lunch specials or as part of combo plates. Its quick preparation and familiar flavors make it popular among families, office workers, and students seeking nutritious and satisfying meals without extensive cooking time.

Interesting Facts

• Stir frying is one of the healthiest cooking methods, as it requires minimal oil and retains most nutrients in vegetables.
• Ground beef absorbs sauces better than sliced beef, which enhances flavor distribution throughout the dish.
• The addition of sesame oil at the end of cooking is a traditional technique to add aroma and depth, a practice borrowed from classic Chinese cuisine.
• Though commonly prepared with beef, this method works equally well with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based proteins for vegetarian alternatives.
• Some chefs recommend using a wok for authentic texture, as the high, even heat helps achieve the perfect caramelization on the meat and vegetables.

FAQ about Ground Beef Stir Fry Recipe

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